As we reported earlier this week here:

http://www.westseattleherald.com/2011/02/21/news/walk-thon-alki-saturda…

Seattle Lutheran senior Brian Simmonds sponsored a 5 mile Walk-A-Thon this morning beginning at the Alki Bath House and walking along the beach sidewalk to benefit Variety the Children's Charity. This worldwide organization raises funds to purchase mobility devises like wheelchairs and adaptable bicycles for children with special needs, including mobility issues, especially where insurance falls short or does not cover such expensive devises.

Brian's father, Rich, went on the walk. His mother, Joyce, stationed herself at the booth to sign in some late-comers. The family lives at Three Tree Point in Burien.

Over 30 people showed up in the cold and were given Charity t-shirts and envelopes to donate money by mail.

When it was announced on the loudspeaker that the walk was 5 miles, not 5K, there were a few audible "oh my gosh" gasps, but it seemed all in fun.

"I know it's cold and I appreciate you all coming," said Simmonds during a brief speech. "It just means a lot to me, for Variety Children's Charity, and for the families it will help here now, and the future families it will help."

He told the West Seattle Herald, "I feel that the message is going to slowly get out there and eventually be circulated around Seattle, and Washington. That's what I'm hoping." He acknowledged Erica Lopez, National Manager, Variety the Children's Charity of the United States, based in Los Angles, for her help in getting him organized. He said he I would like to one day be a history teacher.

"I was supposed to be at work, but Brian talked me into coming, so I figured I'd come to support him," said Sam Depew, also a senior at Seattle Lutheran. She lives in Arbor Heights. I'm always happy to help out Brian. I never heard of the organization before. I am working on Special Olympics for my high school senior project."

Depew showed up with her best friend Katie Terry, who lives near the Fauntleroy Ferry, graduated Seattle Lutheran last year and now attends Oregon State University.

"I've known Brian since kindergarten," Terry said. "Since I've known him he's been such a great person. I didn't know about this charity. It's awesome bringing attention to something not a lot of people know about. For my senior project I went to Guadalajara, Mexico, and helped in a children's shelter.

"People say the senior project 'forces' you to do community service, but what's better than community service? You're helping other people out who are less fortunate than you. It's probably one of the best experiences I had in high school."

Lakisha Swayzer who participated in the walk is a benefactor of a stroller she was given through the charity.

"I'm here supporting the Variety Children's Charity because my daughter was given a stroller by them," said Swayer, a Rainier Beach resident. "We are thankful for it. When the stroller arrived I was so happy. She's 11, and getting bigger and it was just what she needed."